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The Jellybeans and the Big Book Bonanza
- By Laura Numeroff, Nate Evans
- Genre: Picture Book
Common Sense Media says
Diverse friends explore books, libraries, and teamwork.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the four main characters in this book call themselves Jellybeans for a reason: not only are they sweet, but they go well together even though they come in different "flavors." All the girls with different interests and abilities are supportive of one another. This is the second book in the bestselling series that includes The Jellybeans and the Big Dance.
What's the story?
Anna loves to read, and she visits the library daily. When her class assignment is to go to the library, find a book about something she likes, read it and participate in the Big Book Bonanza, she is ecstatic. Her friends are not so excited. Each of them has other interests, and none of them is quite the book-lover she is. However, she takes them with her to the library and, with the librarian's help, each finds a book she loves. All is fine, that is, until Anna realizes she has to give a report on her book. Happily, her friends help her out and all ends well. Together they celebrate with another trip to Petunia's candy shop.
Is it any good?
Books, libraries, cute characters who cooperate, and jelly beans...how can that combination miss? With sweet artwork that is not too syrupy, and a kind and tender message that will touch a sensitive spot with most young readers, this is definitely a book kids will enjoy. The pink, sparkly cover may appeal to girls more than boys, but the story is for everyone.
Munsinger's watercolors are delightfully cute. The pages sparkle not only with glitter but with personality. The characters are fluffy little animals, and the pages are uncluttered and pleasant to look at.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about choosing books. Each of the Jellybeans chose a different kind of book because different things interested each one of them. What kind of book would you have chosen? Did any of the characters choose the book you would have chosen? Would choosing just one book be easy for you or not? Have you ever asked the librarian to help you find books you would like? How would they know what to pick?
Do you think Jellybeans is a good name for the girls' club? Why? Do you have a club with any of your friends? Does it have a name? What does the name say about you and your friends?
How did Anna feel about giving her report? Why do you think she was so worried? How did her friends help her get through it? Have you ever had to talk in front of the class like Anna did? Did your friends help you out? Would you have helped Anna if she were in your class?
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AGE
Sends positive message about friendships
My two year old adores this book. It is beautifully drawn and colorful, keeps her attention and sends a positive message about how to be good friend. However, I find it a bit lame how each character basically echoes what the other just said; it's a bit repetitive. Otherwise, a cute addition to her bookshelf.
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| Authors: | Laura Numeroff, Nate Evans |
| Illustrator: | Lynn Munsinger |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Picture Book |
| Publisher: | Abrams Books for Young Readers |
| Publication date: | March 1, 2010 |
| Number of pages: | 32 |
| Hardcover price: | $15.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 4 - 8 |
| Read aloud: | 4 |
| Read alone: | 6 |
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